光景

• Reading: こうけい
• Romaji: koukei
• Kanji breakdown: 光 (kou) — light, radiance; 景 (kei) — scene, view
• Pronunciation: /koː.keː/

Meaning

Scene; spectacle; sight. A view or situation that makes a strong visual impression.

A somewhat literary or descriptive noun used when a scene leaves a lasting impression, whether beautiful, shocking, or memorable. Often modified by adjectives like 美しい (utsukushii, beautiful), 悲惨な (hisan na, tragic), or 信じられない (shinji rarenai, unbelievable). More vivid and emotional than the neutral 景色 (keshiki, scenery).

Examples

1. 桜が満開の光景は本当に美しかった。 The sight of cherry blossoms in full bloom was truly beautiful.
2. その事故の光景が頭から離れない。 I can't get the scene of that accident out of my head.
3. 子供たちが元気に遊ぶ光景に癒された。 I was comforted by the sight of children playing energetically.

Usage Guide

Context: description, literature, news

Tone: descriptive

Origin & History

Composed of 光 (light, radiance) and 景 (scene, view). The combination suggests a scene illuminated or highlighted, conveying something that catches the eye and leaves an impression.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal